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Tesco testing virtual fitting rooms for online shoppers

March 6, 2012

Tesco Clothing is helping online shoppers find the perfect size and fit with the company's virtual fitting room service. Tesco, the first retailer to use the technology, is testing the service on its Facebook page. It allows customers to create 3-D digital versions of themselves from photos that they upload, Emily Shamma, director of Tesco Clothing Online, said in a company press release.

"Although there has been talk about virtual fitting rooms before, until now the technology has not been able to combine styling, accurate fit and size based on peoples' specific measurements," she said. "Shopping with your virtual self helps you to see what dress might suit you best, what top goes with those skinny jeans or how a jacket might look with a particular skirt. It is also quick and easy to use, particularly for customers who don't have the time or dislike having to trek around the shops."

After uploading two full-body photos, or a face photo accompanied by body measurements, the F&F fitting room creates the virtual bodies to look exactly like them and then suggests sizes based on the details submitted.

Customers will be able to choose from a selection of 50 new season items, and a further 10 garments will be added each week during the trial. Customers can add any of the options to their virtual baskets and purchase them on the Tesco clothing website.

The system also gives customers the opportunity to try out various hairstyles to create different looks and the option to share their favorite outfits with selected friends on Facebook for feedback.

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